The second largest of the Hawaiian Islands, Maui is a natural wonderland that’s full of splendor and scenery that has been taking visitor’s breath away for centuries.
Due to the volcanic activity that formed the island eons ago, it’s home to many dramatic geologic formations and diverse micro-climates that are largely responsible for the unique flora and fauna that are found here, many of which aren’t found anywhere else.
Whether you’re looking to beat your own trail into the dense rainforest, scale a mountain or two, or just take in a sunset from the deck of a sailboat, finding things to do in Maui won’t be a problem.
Below are 15 of the best tours in Maui.
1. Sunset Cruise with Champagne from Lahaina
Source: getyourguide.comSunsets are a sight to behold in Maui, and they should be witnessed from as many different vantage points as possible.
This tailor-made sunset cruise departs from nearby Lahaina, and is one of the area’s quintessential experiences.
Though it’s only a 2-hour cruise, you won’t feel like you’ve missed anything after sipping a few beverages and watching the sun slip behind the darkening sea.
Appetizers, local beer, and champagne are included, and remember that even in the summer the weather is subject to change out on the water, so bring a sweater or windbreaker just in case it gets windy and chilly.
2. Thrill Seekers Tour along the Road to Hana
Source: getyourguide.comThough there is no shortage of guided tours along the scenic road to Hana, this tour was specifically designed with fit and able seekers of excitement and exercise in mind.
This 10-hour tour includes transportation, breakfast, lunch, water and snacks, and you’ll need all those calories, as hiking will be a big part of your day.
You’ll hoof it to waterfalls, whack your way through some thick rainforest and visit one of the island’s oldest ranches.
A stop will also be made at Charles Lindbergh’s grave, and if like me, you didn’t know he was buried here, you’ll be pleasantly surprised.
Bring sturdy shoes and ample clothing for a variety of possible weather conditions.
3. Molokini and Turtle Town Snorkel with Deli Lunch
Source: getyourguide.comIf gliding across the Pacific in a majestic catamaran, snorkeling among some amazing coral reefs and sipping Mai Tais sounds like a great way to spend an afternoon, then this tour is for you.
This 5½-hour tour will let you swim with hundreds of species of fish and the Hawaiian Green Turtles for which Turtle Town is named.
Continental breakfast and lunch are included, and if you’d like to spend the afternoon relaxing on the shaded deck with a good book and a cool drink, that’s OK too.
For obvious reasons these tours fill up fast, so don’t procrastinate.
4. Mountaintop Sunrise Tour to Haleakala National Park
Source: Pierre Leclerc / shutterstockSince you’ve already likely seen the amazing sunset from the gently rolling deck of a stately catamaran, perhaps a view of this daily but awe-inspiring phenomenon from the heights of a mountaintop is in order.
Haleakala National Park is full of mountains that are perfectly positioned to give visitors panoramic views of the surrounding land and sea.
This 8-hour tour will take you through some amazingly unique landscapes and will ultimately lead to the top of Mount Haleakala, which rises nearly 10,000 feet into the air.
The weather at such altitudes can change quickly, so pack accordingly.
5. Full-Day Guided Sightseeing Tour on the Road to Hāna
Source: MNStudio / shutterstockThe road to Hana is one of the most scenic coastal drives on the island of Maui.
It twists and turns through deep valleys, emerald green forests and even a few areas that may remind you of the American southwest.
Stops include beaches, waterfalls, and sheer cliffs, after which you’ll enjoy a Tahitian-style barbecue lunch.
Make sure your phone is charged and your camera has film, because you’ll be overwhelmed with the once-in-a-lifetime photo ops that will present themselves throughout the tour.
You’ll also get to see a famous oceanic blowhole that plays an interesting part in some of the local legends.
6. Sunset Dinner Cruise in Ka’anapali
Source: getyourguide.comFew tours can claim to make their visitors feel like visiting royalty, but this sunset dinner tour aboard the Catamaran Teralani comes pretty close.
You’ll cruise the prevailing winds to get to the choicest spot from which to watch the sunset, after which you’ll enjoy a world-class meal prepared by an amazing local chef.
If a romantic evening with your significant other is a priority, then don’t let this tour depart without you both on it.
It’s probably the perfect way to end a full day of running around and seeing all the sights that Maui has to offer visitors.
7. Ka’anapali Beach Segway Tour
Source: getyourguide.comSegways have become a popular way to cover lots of ground quickly, especially if you’re a little out of shape or aren’t into walking miles on your quest for adventure.
This 3-hour tour will keep you near the Pacific’s wind and water as you meander your way through Wahikuli State Park and Hanakoo Beach.
You’ll rendezvous with your guide in Lahaina and get a crash-course in the safe operation of your Segway unit.
If you’re lacking in experience or even balance, fear not, because it’s easier than it looks.
And remember, kids especially love Segways, so this tour will give them 3 solid hours of fun.
8. 75-Minute Hana Rainforest Helicopter Tour
Source: getyourguide.comEven if you’re not looking at anything particularly interesting, riding in a helicopter is just downright cool.
When coupled with the amazing rainforest, ocean and mountain views near Hana, this tour will take on nearly mythical appeal.
First you’ll do a bit of land exploration, after which you’ll take to the air for a 40-minute copter cruise from which you’ll see the area’s most iconic volcanic formations including the aptly named Jurassic Rock.
This tour is a great bang for your hard-earned travel dollars and is perfect for those who don’t have much free time in their busy itineraries.
9. Snorkeling with the Dolphins and Cruise from Lahaina to Lanai
Source: getyourguide.comThis popular 5-hour tour starts with a world-class breakfast consisting of ham, eggs, donuts, coffee, fruit and cinnamon buns that’ll make you weak at the knees.
After breakfast you’ll cruise to the snorkeling spot, get an introductory course in the finer points of safety and snorkeling technique, then plunge into the clear waters and swim with fish near the cliffs at Shark Fin Rock.
If that name scares you, don’t worry as it’s named after the structure’s shape, not the local man-eaters that patrol the waters.
If swimming with the fish isn’t your idea of a good time, you’ll be able to see them through the boat’s glass bottom.
10. Oahu Submarine Scooter Adventure
Source: viator.comIf you already have an up-to-date scuba certification, then this unique underwater tour is for you.
Chances are you’ll feel like James Bond on an underwater demolition mission when you feel the thrust of your underwater propulsion scooter.
Supposedly this type of dive will count toward future certifications, so you’ll really be killing two birds with one stone.
Please note that this tour should only be booked by experienced divers with recent outings under their belts.
You’ll skim over amazing natural reefs and a few of the wrecks that act as congregating areas for large numbers of fish who find shelter in its nooks and crannies.
11. East Maui Waterfalls and Rainforest Hike
Source: viator.comThis guided hiking tour will take you to some of the island’s most majestic and hidden waterfalls.
And since a large proportion of tourists aren’t up for a hike, you aren’t likely to run into crowds.
You’ll visit 5 waterfalls in all, and though water and snacks are included, you may want to eat a big breakfast because you’ll expend quite a few calories.
Once at the pools you’ll be able to relax, swim, sunbathe, or even jump from some of the cliffs around the falls if you’re feeling particularly frisky.
Lastly, you’ll visit a north shore beach and with a little luck see some amazing sea turtles.
12. 2-Day Camping and Hiking Excursion in Hana
If you consider yourself an adventurous outdoor type, then this 2-day camping and hiking tour should be right up your alley.
You’ll make your way to private waterfalls that are a moderate hike from the Hana Road, but surprisingly get little tourist traffic.
On the way you’ll trek through some amazingly green and lush forests, and you’ll even be able to do a little cliff jumping and tide pool exploration if that sounds like fun.
The tour’s gem is a 400-foot tall waterfall that may just be the most majestic you’ll see on your Hawaiian trip.
Drinks and meals are included and you’ll get to spend the night under the beautiful starlit sky.
13. Zip-line Adventure in Haleakala
Source: getyourguide.comZip lining has become a popular activity in recent years. Though it was once the exclusive activity of adrenaline junkies, it’s now pretty mainstream.
If you’re up for a little high-altitude sightseeing above a massive volcano that’s crisscrossed by 5 different zip-lines, then this tour is a must.
In addition to the excitement you’ll learn about the amazingly diverse and unique ecosystems that can be found on Maui.
Your guide and instructor will give you all the training, safety tips and equipment that you’ll need to have a fun, safe and informative time.
Previous guests have tagged this tour as a particular favorite of their trip to Maui.
14. Jungle Treasure Hunt Adventure
Source: getyourguide.comIf you’ve been looking for a fun and unique activity that’ll be a hit with the whole family, then consider this treasure hunt in the jungle.
It’s a 3-hour guided activity designed to get the mind working and the blood flowing, as you’ll be following clues that will lead through some of the island’s lush forests in a quest to find the missing treasure.
You’ll get dirty too, so dress accordingly, and eat a big breakfast because in the calorie-burning department this tour is second to none, especially for the children.
Snacks and water are provided but don’t show up on an empty stomach.
15. Tastes of Maui Food Tour
Source: getyourguide.comMaui has a fascinating history and culture, and with so many delicious and natural ingredients close at hand it’s no wonder that the cuisine is phenomenal too.
This 6-hour tour includes door-to-door transportation and visits to 7 of the area’s most popular and authentic restaurants.
You’ll sample nearly 20 dishes and more than a few local microbrews too, if you’re in the mood.
Of course the traditional poke will be on the menu, as will a number of seafood dishes like sashimi and my personal favorite, fish tacos.
Needless to say, it’s imperative that you come hungry for this whirlwind culinary tour.